Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is a dream come true for comfort food lovers. Combining a juicy, seasoned meatloaf base with a rich, creamy mac and cheese topping, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, a cozy weekend meal, or something that feels indulgent but familiar, this recipe has you covered. With flavors that remind you of home-cooked classics and the convenience of a one-dish meal, it’s perfect for quick dinner nights, hearty leftovers, or special gatherings.
Ingredients
500g ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Press the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
3. While the meatloaf bakes, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese and mix until fully melted into a creamy sauce.
7. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
8. Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven and layer the mac and cheese on top.
9. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over the top.
10. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
11. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
This dish slices cleaner after resting—don’t skip the cool-down time.
For extra flavor, mix a little smoked paprika or hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 140mg